DMPO spin trapping compositions and methods of use thereof

ABSTRACT

Spin trapping compositions in general have now been discovered to be effective in treating a variety of disorders, including disorders such as those arising from ischemia, infection, inflammation, exposure to radiation or cytotoxic compounds, not just of the central and peripheral nervous systems but of peripheral organ disease having a wide variety of etiologies. In the preferred embodiment, the compositions for treating tissue damage from ischemia (DMPO include 5,5-dimethyl pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO), and spin-trapping derivatives thereof, in a suitable pharmaceutical carrier for intravenous, oral, topical, or nasal/pulmonary administration. Many different disorders can be treated using these compounds, including diseases or disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems, and disorders arising from ischemia, infection, inflammation, oxidation from exposure to radiation or cytotoxic compounds, as well as due to naturally occurring processes such as aging.

This application is a CIP of Ser. No. 07/716,952, filed Jun. 18, 1991, now abandoned, which is a CIP of Ser. No. 07/589,177, filed Sep. 27, 1990, now abandoned, which is a CIP of Ser. No. 07/422,651, filed Oct. 17, 1989, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,025,032.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a method and compositions containing spin trapping agents for the treatment of dysfunctions and disease conditions arising from oxidative damage.

Oxygenated tissue suffers damage, in many cases permanent damage, if it becomes ischemic and is then reperfused. Brain appears to be highly susceptible to ischemia/reperfusion injury. Certain areas of the brain, for example, the hippocampus and spinal cord, are more susceptible than other regions of the brain. As a result, ischemia/reperfusion injury to brain may have a multiplicative effect simply because of the necessity for complete integrity of all regions in order to have proper functioning.

Free radicals have been postulated to be mediators of reperfusion damage. The most likely sites for production of such radicals as the superoxide (O⁻²) and hydroxyl (OH--) species, and the precursor oxygen species, H₂ O₂ are the mitochondrial respiratory chain specific enzymes and the sequences catalyzed by cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase. However, radicals are also formed during autoxidation of many compounds (e.g., catecholamines). Ischemia appears to favor a spurt of free-radical formation, resulting in oxidation of polyenoic free fatty acids, release and reuptake of catecholamines, and oxidation of hypoxanthine by xanthine oxidase. Despite these events occurring during recirculation, when the O₂ supply is restored, they represent metabolic cascades triggered by agonist-receptor interactions, energy failure, and/or calcium influx during the insult.

Although free radical formation has been postulated to be a likely cause of ischemic damage, it was difficult to directly demonstrate that such formation occurs and/or that it was sufficiently pronounced to overwhelm the antioxidative defense of the tissue, as reviewed by Curran, et al., Mol. Cell. Biol. 5, 167-172 (1985). Phenyl butyl nitrone (PBN) has been used in a number of these in vitro research studies using spin trapping to look for free radicals, but until demonstrated by the data in U.S. Ser. No. 07/422,651, (filed Oct. 17, 1989, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,025,032) there has been no data to support the proposition that it can be useful in vivo, particularly with respect to treatment of tissue damage in the central nervous system. In vivo, the drug must be able to both cross the blood brain barrier and act in a manner which reduces tissue damage during or following ischemia.

In U.S. Ser. No. 07/589,177, (filed Sep. 27, 1990, now abandoned) the use of PBN and related compounds, as well as 5,5-dimethyl pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO) and α-(4-pyridinyl-1-oxide)-N-tert-butylnitrone (POBN), for treatment of aging was described. Age related changes in central nervous system function have generally been associated with the loss of cells, a widening of lateral ventricles and deficits in short term memory. The precise mechanisms of functional changes as a result of aging, or other diseases associated with aging, have not generally been agreed upon, including several mechanisms for the generation of oxidized material in the brain. A marked reduction in certain neurotransmitter receptor systems has been associated with increased oxidation of proteins. For example, decreases in muscarinic receptors and other cholinergic systems have been characterized as they relate to alterations in functions in Alzheimers disease. It is now known that the processes of aging and Alzheimer's disease are associated with oxidation of brain proteins. It has also been hypothesized that aging is associated with multiple minor periods of ischemia (multi-infarct conditions or transient ischemia attacks) which, over a period of time, may give rise to the production of oxidized protein.

The demonstration in a variety of systems, both neural and nonneural, that there is an age related enhancement of the level of oxidized protein in tissue gives rise to the possibility that age related dysfunctions in the central nervous system may be associated with the build-up of oxidized proteins and oxidized macromolecules within neurons throughout the central nervous system. The hypothesis is that cells which have a buildup of oxidized protein are less functional and less able to maintain the specified role of those cells in that particular area of the central nervous system. The data presented in U.S. Ser. No. 07/589,177 (filed Sep. 27, 1990, now abandoned) was the first report of substantial investigations in which alterations in the oxidized protein burden of the central nervous system was manipulated and correlated with a functional outcome on the part of the animal. There are a number of other disorders and diseases which have now been postulated to be associated with oxidation of proteins, including many central nervous system (CNS) diseases besides stroke and aging, including Parkinsonism, trauma, vascular headaches, cerebral palsy, diabetic neuropathy, and neuroanesthesia adjunct, as well as peripheral nervous system diseases such as diabetic peripheral neuropathy and traumatic nerve damage, as well as peripheral organ diseases. Examples of peripheral organ diseases include atherosclerosis, pulmonary fibrosis, pancreatitis, angioplasty, multiple organ failure, burns, decubitus ulcers, and ischemic bowel disease.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide spin-trapping compositions and methods for use thereof which are useful in preventing or reversing ischemic damage in vivo, in the CNS, resulting from diseases such as stroke, aging, Parkinsonism, concussion, Berry aneurysm, ventricular hemorrhage and associated vasospasm, spinal cord trauma, vascular headaches, and neuroanesthesia adjunct.

It is another object of the present invention to provide spin-trapping compositions, and methods for use thereof, which are useful in treating damage in vivo resulting from peripheral nervous system diseases, including diabetic peripheral neuropathy and traumatic nerve damage.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide spin-trapping compositions, and methods for use thereof, which are useful in preventing or reversing free radical damage in vivo resulting from injury, infection and inflammation, especially peripheral organ diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), atherosclerosis (both diabetic and spontaneous), pulmonary fibrosis due to anti-cancer treatment, drug treatment, pancreatitis, angioplasty, multi-organ failure following trauma, burns (chemical, thermal, and radiation), the progressive loss of myocardial cells leading to cardiac failure as a result of age-related oxidation, and ischemic bowel disease.

It is another object of the present invention to provide spin-trapping compositions for use in the process of organ transplantation and preservation.

It is a further object of the present invention to treat disorders not associated with oxidation, such as undesirable HDL/LDL ratios, as well as the treatment of damage arising from exposure to cytotoxic compounds and radiation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Spin trapping compounds in general, and DMPO and derivatives thereof, have now been discovered to be effective in treating a variety of disorders, including disorders such as those arising from ischemia, infection, inflammation, exposure to radiation or cytotoxic compounds, not just of the central and peripheral nervous systems but of peripheral organ disease having a wide variety of etiologies.

Spin trapping compounds as referred to herein are molecules that (1) have an unpaired electron; (2) form a stable compound or complex with a free radical; and (3) are nontoxic, i.e., have a therapeutic index (margin of safety; EC₅₀ /LC₅₀) of 3 or more.

The spin traps provide a unique signal that can be measured by electron spin spectroscopy (ESR) when it binds to a free radical.

The general formula for DMPO and derivatives thereof is disclosed herein. An essential criteria for the selection of the spin trap for use as a pharmaceutical is that it actively trap free radicals without cytotoxicity, and that in the applications where access to the CNS is required for efficacy, that the compounds pass through the blood brain barrier.

Many different disorders can be treated using these compounds, including diseases or disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems, and disorders arising from ischemia, infection, inflammation, oxidation from exposure to radiation or cytotoxic compounds, as well as due to naturally occurring processes such as aging.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The term alkyl, as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to a saturated straight, branched, or cyclic hydrocarbon of C₁ to C₁₀, and specifically includes methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, cyclopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, t-butyl, pentyl, cyclopentyl, isopentyl, neopentyl, hexyl, isohexyl, cyclohexyl, 3-methylpentyl, 2,2-dimethylbutyl, and 2,3-dimethylbutyl, and cyclohexyl.

The term alkenyl, as referred to herein, and unless otherwise specified, refers to a straight, branched, or cyclic (in the case of C₅₋₆) hydrocarbon of C₂ to C₁₀ with at least one double bond.

The term aryl, as used herein, and unless otherwise specified, refers to phenyl or substituted phenyl, wherein the substituent is halo or lower alkyl.

The term halo, as used herein, includes fluoro, chloro, bromo, and iodo.

The term aralkyl refers to an aryl group with an alkyl substituent.

The term alkaryl refers to an alkyl group that has an aryl substituent.

The term halo (alkyl or alkenyl) refers to an alkyl or alkenyl group in which at least one of the hydrogens in the group has been replaced with a halogen atom. The term haloalkyl specifically includes trifluoromethyl.

The term aralkyl refers to an aryl group with an alkyl substituent.

The term pharmaceutically active derivative refers to any compound that upon administration to the recipient, is capable of providing directly or indirectly, the compounds disclosed herein.

The term alkaryl refers to an alkyl group that has an aryl substituent.

The term nontoxic refers to a compound that has a therapeutic index of at least three.

The invention disclosed herein includes pharmaceutical compositions that contain spin trapping compounds or pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives or salts thereof for use in medical therapy, for example for the treatment or prophylaxis of disorders such as those arising from ischemia, infection, inflammation, exposure to radiation or cytotoxic compounds, not just of the central and peripheral nervous systems but of peripheral organ disease having a wide variety of etiologies.

The invention also includes the use of spin trapping agents and pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives or salts thereof in the manufacture of a medicament for treatment or prophylaxis of disorders such as those arising from ischemia, infection, inflammation, exposure to radiation or cytotoxic compounds, not just of the central and peripheral nervous systems but of peripheral organ disease having a wide variety of etiologies.

It has now been discovered that spin-trapping agents are generally useful in preventing or treating symptoms associated with a very wide range of disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system, as well as peripheral organ disfunction and disease, including not just aging, trauma, ischemia, but disorders as disparate as undesirable ratios of lipoproteins, ulcerative colitis, and damage arising from exposure to radiation and cytotoxic compounds (chemotherapeutic compounds, in most instances).

Useful Spin-trapping Compounds

DMPO and Derivatives Thereof

The preferred spin-trapping compounds are 5,5-dimethyl pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO), and spin-trapping derivatives thereof. Many compounds are commercially available or can be synthesized using methods known to those skilled in the art.

DMPO and derivatives thereof.

The general formula for DMPO, and specific derivatives are: ##STR1## wherein R¹ is alkyl, alkaryl, aralkyl, phenyl, imidazolyl, phenothiazinyl, or ##STR2## n=1-5, preferably 1-3; R² =independently (can vary within the molecule) halogen, alkyl, oxyalkyl, alkenyl, oxyalkenyl, OH, ##STR3## --SO₃ H, --OSO₃ H, SH, --S(alkyl), --S(alkenyl), and haloalkyl, specifically including --CF₃ ;

A=O or S; and

Z is a C₁ to C₆ straight, branched, alkyl or cyclic group; and

Y is a tert-butyl group that can be hydroxylated or acetylated at one or more positions; phenyl or ##STR4## R³⁻⁸ are independently hydrogen, alkyl, for example methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, or t-butyl, alkaryl, aralkyl, phenyl, imidazolyl, phenothiazinyl, or ##STR5##

In a preferred embodiment, R³⁻⁶ are hydrogen, and R⁷ and R⁸ are alkyl, for example methyl.

Specific compounds include 2,5,5-trimethylpyrroline-N-oxide, 2-t-butyl-5,5-dimethylpyrroline-N-oxide, 2-phenyl-5,5-dimethylpyrroline-N-oxide, and 2-phenyl-3,3,5,5-tetramethylpyrroline-N-oxide. ##STR6## Conjugates and polymers of spin trapping compounds.

In another embodiment, spin trapping compounds are covalently attached to known pharmaceutical agents, by methods known to those skilled in the art. Examples of useful compounds include spin traps covalently bound to antiinflammatories, neuroactive compounds, antioxidants, or calcium channel blockers. Examples as illustrated include conjugates of acetaminophen, dopamine (or DOPA), vitamin E, and nifediphene. ##STR7##

Other drugs that can be covalently bound to the spin traps include calcium channel blockers such as nimodipine, nicardipine, nifedipine, nitrendipine, diltriazam and flunarazine; cardiac glycosides such as digitalis and analogues thereof; adenergic antagonists such as propranalol; metal chelators such as desferal; modified steroids such as lazaroids; antiinflammatories such as prednisone; nonsteroidal antiinflammatories such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and indomethacin; antioxidants such as vitamin E; and neuroactive compounds such as L-DOPA. The optimal position to bind the spin trap to the pharmaceutical agent is easily determined using known information on structure activity relationships and bulk tolerance of the pharmaceutical agent. In some cases spacers will be required between the spin-trap and the conjugated compound in order to preserve maximum activity.

Spin traps can also be attached to antibodies or ligands for specific receptors (such as certain hormones, enzymes, or even specific sugars or carbohydrates) which are used to "target" or otherwise concentrate the spin trapping compound. Depending on the structure of the spin trap, as well as the biologically active compound, it may be necessary to insert a spacer between the spin trap and the biologically active compound.

Indications that the compositions are Useful in Treating

The spin trap or free-radical scavenger compositions are useful in treating a variety of dysfunctions or disorders characterized by oxidized proteins or lipids in the tissues, cells, or associated fluids (such as the blood). Oxidation of cytosolic protein has been demonstrated to occur in a wide variety of pathological conditions.

Accordingly, compounds which have as their fundamental mechanism of action the interference of production of oxidized protein are useful in the treatment of a wide variety of diseases having what appears at first glance to be widely dissimilar etiologies, because the fundamental cause of the condition is oxidation of protein, nucleic acids, or lipids.

Disorders are generally divided into disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system and disorders of the peripheral organs.

Disorders of the CNS include stroke, aging, Parkinsonism, concussion, aneurysm, ventricular hemorrhage and associated vasospasm, migraine and other vascular headaches, spinal cord trauma, diabetic retinopathy, and neuroanesthesia adjunct. Disorders of the peripheral nervous system include diabetic peripheral neuropathy and traumatic nerve damage.

Peripheral organ disease includes atherosclerosis (both diabetic and spontaneous), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pancreatitis, pulmonary fibrosis due to chemotherapeutic agents, angioplasty, trauma, burns, ischemic bowel disease, wounds, ulcers and bed sores, lupus, ulcerative colitis, organ transplantation, renal hypertension, overexertion of skeletal muscle, and epistaxis (pulmonary bleeding).

Other conditions associated with excessive oxidation of proteins or lipids that can be treated include undesirable or altered oxidation of low density lipoprotein, and dysfunction from exposure to radiation, including x-ray, ultraviolet, gamma and beta radiation, and cytotoxic compounds, including those used for chemotherapy for cancer and viral infections.

Treatment of Central Nervous System Diseases

Stroke

Multiple in vitro studies, as well as the in vivo data presented in U.S. Ser. No. 07/589,177 (filed Sep. 27, 1990, now abandoned) and U.S. Ser. No. 07/422,651 (filed Oct. 17, 1989, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,025,032) have demonstrated that there are a series of biochemical changes that result in the production of free radicals following ischemia. Spin-trapping compounds can covalently bind to these radicals and prevent the peroxidation of cellular proteins and fatty acids. The consequence of the trapping of these carbon-centered and oxygen-centered radicals is the termination of the propagation phase of free radical production within the neuron. This interruption of free radical production can decrease the mortality and morbidity seen in strokes.

Aging

Aging has been demonstrated to be associated with the production of abnormally high levels of oxidized proteins. The consequence of this increased level of protein oxidation is an abnormally low level of critical enzymes in the affected cells. While not all cells have been evaluated, it appears from the in vivo data presented in U.S. Ser. No. 07/589,177 (filed Sep. 27, 1990, now abandoned) and U.S. Ser. No. 07/422,651, (filed Oct. 17, 1989, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,025,032) and reports of in vitro studies, that most, if not all, cells in the body will undergo abnormally high levels of protein oxidation. Decreases in antioxidant systems and abnormally low levels of mitochondrial function have been described. The protein oxidation is thought to arise from oxygen free radicals, largely generated via a metal catalyzed reaction within the cell.

Parkinsonism

Research has indicated that one of the principle sources of dopaminergic damage to the striatum is via free radical mediated oxidation. Dopamine can be oxidized to the neurotoxin 6-OH dopamine within the neuron. This neurotoxin is activated by a second oxidation. Both of these reactions are thought to occur as a result of oxygen free radical production and attack on the dopamine, a naturally occurring neurotransmitter. These oxygen radical mediated oxidations are thought to occur at a relatively slow rate and to be responsible for the progressive loss of motor function in Parkinsonism and related conditions. It is believed that PBN and other spin-trapping compounds will be effective in limiting the production of the neurotoxic dopamine oxidation products.

Concussion

The majority of the research literature indicates that concussion produces the bulk of its long term effects via interruption of brain and spinal cord microcirculation, producing localized ischemia. This interruption in blood flow can be the result of the initial trauma and shearing of capillaries or the consequence of the brain edema and compression of the blood vessels. In any event, spin trapping compounds are of therapeutic value as they have been demonstrated to be in models of stroke.

Berry Aneurysm and Other Types of Aneurysm

This vascular problem results in bleeding on the brain and presents as a serious and chronic headache or other neurologic symptom. The condition is ultimately treated by surgical repair of the vessel that has developed a weak wall. However, this condition often results in hemorrhage and neural damage due to the bleeding. In addition, the presence of blood on the outside of the vessel sensitizes the vessels to spasm and increases the risk of a stroke, as is also true in concussion and other traumatic conditions. In addition to the radicals generated by spasm and stroke, the iron or other metal catalyzed generation of oxygen free radicals, similar to what has been proposed for ischemia and concussion, also represents a second source of free radicals.

Ventricular Hemorrhage and Associated Vasospasm

The same biochemical and physiological conditions as described for Berry Aneurysm and their management by spin trapping compounds will apply for these conditions.

Migraine and Other Vascular Headaches

Migraines are thought to arise in part from large vessel vasodilation and compression of the microcirculation of the cortex. This is another form of ischemia/reperfusion injury. While spin-trapping compounds will not prevent the initial occurrence of these vascular headaches, they limit the extent or frequency by trapping the free radicals that are generated during the ischemia phase.

Spinal Cord Trauma

Spinal cord trauma involves the interruption of the normal vascular supply due to shearing forces at the time of the initial trauma and as a result of the subsequent edema of the tissue. In addition, the hemorrhage that often accompanies such trauma will also generate vasospasm and directly generated oxygen free radicals. Spin trapping compounds limit this process and terminate the intracellular cascade of lipid and protein oxidation.

Neuroanesthesia Adjunct

Several procedures involve resection of brain tissue which will result in hemorrhage in the immediate area. Other surgical procedures may be associated with increased risk of cerebral blood flow interruption, either as a natural consequence of the procedure, e.g., cardiac surgery or heart transplantation, or due to the unexpected interruption of flow, e.g., hemorrhage, clot following angioplasty, cardiac arrest during surgery. In all of these conditions, spin-trapping compounds will limit free radical mediated damage, and will limit the development of antigenic reactions or other changes in the vascular endothelium that will increase the risk of the development of a reaclusive injury. Reduction in free radical mediated damage limits antigen/antibody mediated tissue damage.

Peripheral Nervous System Diseases

Diabetics are well known for their tendencies to develop peripheral neuropathies and progressively lose sensation in limbs. In addition, diabetics have a higher risk to develop atherosclerosis, which may affect microvascular function. One of the most frequently seen biochemical consequences of diabetes is excessive glycation of proteins. It is believed that following glycation, there is a burst of protein oxidation that is mediated by oxygen free radicals. It is thought that this process of excessive glycation is critical in the development of damage to neurons and axons in the diabetic. Since spin trapping compounds are quite effective in limiting intracellular free radical mediated damage, such compounds can be used in the chronic management of diabetic neuropathies and other long term adverse consequences of diabetes.

Traumatic Nerve Damage

Crushing injury to peripheral nerves, as in the hands, arms, and legs, involves interruption of blood flow (ischemia) and edema. Effective and prompt repair is dependent on the re-establishment of an effective oxygen and nutrient supply. Often recovering tissue tends to outgrow its blood supply and is restricted in recovery by the ischemia that occurs as the tissue outgrows the vascular supply. Spin-trapping compounds can be used to provide greater tolerance of partial hypoxia as vascular supply grows to reach the healing tissue. In addition, the same ischemia/hypoxia protection that occurs in the non-vascular tissue may also enhance the growth of the endothelia as the revascularization process occurs.

Peripheral Organ Diseases

Atherosclerosis (Both Diabetic and Spontaneous

Diabetic atherosclerosis involves the abnormal and excessive glycation of protein in the vascular wall. As discussed above for diabetic neuropathy, this involves oxygen radical production and consequent further damage to cytosolic proteins. Spin-trapping compounds will prevent this abnormal processing of cellular protein and other cellular constituents.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD has been demonstrated to involve the attack of interstitial alveolar macrophages on pulmonary tissue. Animal models of this clinical condition have demonstrated that increases or decreases in superoxide dismutase activity in the lung can result in decreases or increases in pulmonary pathology, respectively. An alternative approach is to provide to the pulmonary tissue, either via the pulmonary vascular supply or via the airway, radical spin-trapping compounds which will limit the peroxidation of pulmonary tissue and the consequent loss of alveolar tissue.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is believed to be the result of ischemic or chemically derived peroxidation of pancreatic parenchyma. Alcoholic pancreatitis is probably due to the direct effects of the ethanol radical and the indirect vascular effects of acetaldehyde mediated direct damage to proteins and indirect damage via catecholamine release and mitochondrial metabolism. There is currently no treatment for acute pancreatitis. If the condition does not abate, it is generally regarded as fatal in the severe form. Spin-trapping agents can be used to mediate the acute reaction, allowing the patient time to recover.

Angioplasty

In the process of re-expanding or laser removal of atheroma, there are periods of ischemia and reperfusion of the vessel or energy mediated production of free radicals. Recent studies have demonstrated that during this period, superoxide and nitric oxide are produced. These products have been demonstrated to further damage the endothelium and may also remove or damage the natural relaxant systems that locally control the vascular tone. If uncontrolled, such changes are likely to result in an increased risk of re-occlusion of the same vessel. Spin-trapping compounds can prevent the generation of the oxy-radical cascade and thereby reduce the likelihood of reocclusion following angioplasty. In the diabetic, there is also an increased risk of cutaneous alteration associated with vascular dysfunction and poor perfusion of the dermis.

Multi-organ Failure Following Trauma

A characteristic problem following extreme trauma is the development in the patient of a negative nitrogen balance, poor protein synthetic capacity, pulmonary dysfunction, and abnormal cytokine production. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is excessively elevated during this process. TNF is associated with the cellular generation of oxygen free radicals in tissue and may be one of the primary causes of this condition. The activation of macrophages and lymphocytes also plays a critical role in the condition. Free radical production by the white cells is part of the process of multiple organ damage. Spin-trapping compounds can prevent the propagation phase of this condition and limit the extent of cachexia and organ damage following severe trauma.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetes is a disease of abnormal glycation and partial ischemia. Both conditions promote free radical production. The relatively common condition of diabetic retinopathy is thought to involve a microvascular and protein dysfunction of the retina. Spin-trapping compounds can limit the glycation mediated production of free radicals and the damage caused by microvascular interruptions.

Burn Treatment and Healing

Healing from serious burns is limited by the inability of the repairing vascular system to supply the rapidly growing cutaneum. Periods of ischemia in the dermis will occur as the growing skin cannot be adequately supplied. This hypoxia or ischemia results in the production of oxygen free radicals and either limits the rate of recovery and/or promotes the generation of scar tissue. Systemic and topical spin-trapping compounds can be used to improve the rate of healing and decrease scar formation.

Ischemic Bowel Disease

Strangulation of the bowel is a condition that is frequently fatal in both humans and animals such as dogs, horses and cattle. Even after resection and anastomosis of the intestine, the prognosis is not good. The generation of ischemia derived oxygen radicals and damage to the intestine is considered to be a primary cause. There is no effective treatment to date.

Studies have demonstrated that ischemia induced intestinal edema can be prevented or reduced by a number of different spin-trapping compounds.

Endotoxin is a primary factor in the pathophysiology of equine gastrointestinal disorders and gram negative bacterial infections. The pathophysiological is similar to that characterizing colitis, salmonellosis, and neonatal septicemia. It is hypothesized that endotoxin produces its toxic effects by triggering "oxidative bursts" from sensitized macrophages. These bursts of O₂ radicals are intended to kill invading bacteria associated with the presence of endotoxin. However, they have the adverse effect of damaging the tissues in which they are produced and this tissue damage is presumably the molecular basis of the pathological changes associated with endotoxin shock. Spin-trapping compounds have the ability to trap radicals and alleviate many of the toxic effects associated with radical formation. Additionally, recent experiments demonstrate that spin trap molecules protect rats against endotoxin administration.

Wound and Ulcer Healing

Tissue healing often involves periods of hypoxia or ischemia as the recovering tissue outgrows the vascular supply. Spin-trapping compounds can decrease the damage associated with this period of ischemia.

Infections as consequence of the development of decubitus ulcers is the number one cause of death in the elderly. The general clinical impression is that elderly patients are much more likely to develop these ulcers, compared to young adults. Pressure sores develop as a result of the interruption of blood flow to the skin. This process is identical to the process of ischemia/reperfusion oxidation of brain and other tissues. In the geriatric and/or diabetic patient, pressure sores may develop due to enhanced oxidation of the cells of the skin. Based upon the observations that spin-trapping compounds can prevent ischemia/reperfusion injury to both brain and intestine, it is expected that spin trapping compounds will reduce or prevent pressure sores. In addition, these compounds can be used systemically or topically in enhancing recovery.

Reduction in Side-effects of Cancer Chemotherapy

A number of cancer chemotherapeutic agents produce their cytotoxic effects via the production of oxygen free radicals within the cell. The limiting side effects of these compounds are also the result of oxygen free radical production in normal cells. Bleomycin produces pulmonary and cutaneous toxicities as a result of hydroxyl free radical production. Adriamycin produces cardiac and gastrointestinal side-effects. Spin-trapping compounds can be used to limit side effects in tissues, such as the brain and heart, that are especially vulnerable to develop free radicals, without compromising the therapeutic value of the chemotherapeutic agent.

Skin, Muscle Flap and Organ Survival Following Transplantation

Autologous (self) transplantation of skeletal muscles from one area to another should not involve any immunologic incompatibilities. However, estimates from one surgeon suggest that the success rate is more in the area of 50% success. Acceptance of skin flap grafts has an equally low success rate. It is postulated that much of the problem arises as a result of ischemia and reperfusion during the surgical procedures for removal and implantation. Following ischemia these tissues undergo calcium loading and eventually necrosis, as in strokes. Spin-trapping compounds can be used to limit the damage undergone by these tissues, as well as other organs, during surgery associated with transplantation.

Organs for transplantation are obtained from donors. The success of the procedure is determined in part by the age (oxidation) related reduction in organ viability, the amount of time the organ is in preservation solution, and the status of the recipient.

Organ preservation solutions are designed to prepare the organ to be transplanted for the period of extracorporeal storage. The most recently developed solution contains glutathione as an antioxidant. Spin-trapping compounds differ from glutathione in that they can function both as antioxidants, trapping oxygen free radicals, as well as trapping compounds for both intracellular and extracellular carbon-centered free radicals.

It is believed organ survival would therefore be enhanced by administering spin-trapping compounds to the recipient, as well as adding the compounds to the organ preservation solution.

Ionizing Radiation Prophylaxis

Ionizing radiation as a therapeutic modality and as an environmental toxicant causes its effects by producing hydroxyl free radicals intracellularly and extracellularly. Ultraviolet radiation acts similarly. The cascade that follows is functionally identical to the process of cellular damage caused by ischemia/reperfusion injury to tissue. Spin-trapping compounds can be used to selectively treat those tissues that are not involved by the cancer, thereby increasing the effectiveness of the therapy and decreasing the side effects of radiation therapies. In the case of environmental exposures, spin-trapping compounds should be effective both as a prophylaxis, applied topically or systemically, as well as a post-exposure therapeutic.

Treatment of Renal Hypertension Disorders Resulting From Low Renal Artery Flow and High Renin

Renal hypertension develops as a result of reduced blood flow to the kidney. The juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA) recognizes this hypoperfusion and releases renin, which results in an angiotensin II mediated increase in blood pressure (hypertension). Hypoperfusion (hypoxia) is a condition that is known to result in significant oxygen free radical production, making it probable that oxygen free radicals are likely to be involved in the release of renin by the JGA, and therefore manageable at least in part through administration of spin-trapping compounds.

Exertional Injury to Skeletal Muscle

Sore muscles as a result of exercise are thought to be a consequence of free radical mediated peroxidation of skeletal muscle proteins and lipids. Since chronic treatment with spin-trapping compounds decreases cellular oxidations and protects enzymes from oxidative inactivation, daily treatment can be used to improve the process of exercise conditioning (especially in the horse). Moreover, aged skeletal muscle is likely to contain constituents, as do most other cells in the body. Spin-trapping can be used to improve the functional status and exercise condition of skeletal muscle in aged individuals.

Epistaxis (Pulmonary Bleeding in Horses) and Laminitis

Epistaxis (ES) and laminitis are both thought to involve ischemia/reperfusion injury to the alveolar basement membrane and the lamina propria of the hoof, respectively. Since both of these conditions involve the process of reperfusion generation of free radicals, spin-trapping compounds can be used in the prevention, management of treatment of these conditions.

Pharmaceutical Compositions

The spin trapping compounds are administered topically, locally, or systemically, depending on the application. When administered systemically, the compound is preferably administered orally or intravenously, in an appropriate pharmaceutical carrier such as saline or phosphate buffered saline (PBS) or in tablet form. For topical application, the compound is preferably administered in an ointment or cream base, or by means of a transdermal patch. The compound can also be administered by controlled delivery devices, such as biodegradable polymers, or by inhalation, insufflation or nasal spray. Suitable carriers are known to those skilled in the pharmaceutical area.

Effective dosages of Spin Trapping Compounds

A typical dose of the spin trapping agent for all of the above-mentioned conditions is in the range from about 0.1 to 100 mg/kg, preferably 0.5 to 50 mg/kg, of body weight per day. The effective dosage range of the pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives can be calculated based on the weight of the parent spin trapping compound to be delivered. If the derivative exhibits activity in itself, the effective dosage can be estimated as above using the weight of the derivative, or by other means known to those skilled in the art.

The compound is conveniently administered in any suitable unit dosage form, including but not limited to one containing 5 to 2000 mg, preferably 50 to 1500 mg of active ingredient per unit dosage form. A oral dosage of 50-1000 mg is usually convenient.

Ideally the active ingredient should be administered to achieve peak plasma concentrations of the active compound of from about 0.5 to 100 mM, preferably about 1 to 30 mM.

The concentration of active compound in the drug composition will depend on absorption, inactivation, and excretion rates of the drug as well as other factors known to those of skill in the art. It is to be noted that dosage values will also vary with the severity of the condition to be alleviated. It is to be further understood that for any particular subject, specific dosage regimens should be adjusted over time according to the individual need and the professional judgment of the person administering or supervising the administration of the compositions, and that the concentration ranges set forth herein are exemplary only and are not intended to limit the scope or practice of the claimed composition. The active ingredient may be administered at once, or may be divided into a number of smaller doses to be administered at varying intervals of time.

It is possible to extrapolate from comparative tests using other spin trapping compounds what the effective dosage for these compounds will be.

Since the trapping of endogenous free radicals is specific for only those cells that have been exposed to the conditions that result in the production of free radicals, the traps have little or no effect on normal cells. The beneficial effects occur only in injured cells, and do not require the presence of specific receptors, specific enzymes, and/or specific cell types.

Methods of Administration of Spin Trapping Compounds

The spin trapping compound is preferably administered systemically, most preferably intravenously or orally, since these are the most rapid and efficient means for delivering the active compound to the site of free radical generation. The spin trapping compound may be administered at once, or may be divided into a number of smaller doses to be administered at varying intervals of time. Other methods of systemic administration can also be used, including inhalation or insufflation, subcutaneous, intravenous, and intraperitoneal administration. The spin trapping compound can also be administered topically, in an ointment, creme, or transdermal patch.

The spin trapping composition can be provided in the form of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt. As used herein, the term pharmaceutically acceptable salts or complexes refers to salts or complexes of that retain the desired biological activity of the parent compound and exhibit minimal, if any, undesired toxicological effects. Nonlimiting examples of such salts are (a) acid addition salts formed with inorganic acids (for example, hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, nitric acid, and the like), and salts formed with organic acids such as acetic acid, oxalic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, malic acid, ascorbic acid, benzoic acid, tannic acid, pamoic acid, alginic acid, polyglutamic acid, naphthalenesuifonic acids, naphthalenedisulfonic acids, and polygalacturonic acid; (b) base addition salts formed with polyvalent metal cations such as zinc, calcium, bismuth, barium, magnesium, aluminum, copper, cobalt, nickel, cadmium, sodium, potassium, and the like, or with an organic cation formed from N,N-dibenzylethylene-diamine, ammonium, or ethylenediamine; or combinations of (a) and (b); e.g., a zinc tannate salt or the like.

A preferred mode of administration of the active compound is in a form for oral delivery. Oral compositions will generally include an inert diluent or an edible carrier. Preferred pharmaceutical carriers for intravenous administration are saline or phosphate buffered saline at physiological pH. Since some compounds are pH sensitive, stability of the compound in the carrier should be determined and the pH of the carrier adjusted appropriately, or the compound administered in combination with food, a buffering agent, or in an enteric coating. For oral delivery, the spin trapping compound may be enclosed in capsules, compressed into tablets, microencapsulated, entrapped in liposomes, in solution or suspension, alone or in combination with a substrate immobilizing material such as starch or poorly absorbable salts such as immodium. Pharmaceutically compatible binding agents can be included as part of the composition. The tablets or capsules may contain, for example, any of the following ingredients, or compounds of a similar nature: a binder such as microcrystalline cellulose, gum tragacanth or gelatin; an excipient such as starch or lactose, a disintegrating agent such as alginic acid, Primogel®, or corn starch; a lubricant such as magnesium stearate or Sterotes; a glidant such as colloidal silicon dioxide; a sweetening agent such as sucrose or saccharin; or a flavoring agent such as peppermint, methyl salicylate, or orange flavoring. When the dosage unit form is a capsule, it can contain, in addition to material of the above type, a liquid carrier. In addition, dosage unit forms can contain various other materials which modify the physical form of the dosage unit, for example, coatings of sugar, shellac, or other enteric agents.

The present invention will be further understood by reference to the following non-limiting examples.

EXAMPLE 1 EPR Spin Trapping Alkoxyl Radicals with 2-Substituted 5,5-Dimethylpyrroline-N-oxides (2-XM₂ PO's)

5,5-dimethylpyrroline N-oxide (DMPO) can be used to detect a variety of free radicals by the method of spin trapping. However, as in any analytical method, there are limitations and interferences in the use of DMPO as a spin trap. These are currently poorly understood, particularly in biological systems. Accordingly, DMPO derivatives for evaluation as better spin traps for biological systems were synthesized. Although some derivatives have been published in which the size of the alkyl group in the 5 position is varied, as reported by Haire and Janzen, Can. J. Chem. 60, 1314 (1982) and Turner and Roasen, J. Mod. Chem, 29, 2439 (1986), 31, 428 (1988), no systematic study is available on the effect of replacing hydrogen atom in the 2 position with a variety of radical inert groups. Although this approach produces spin adducts without the β-hydrogen information center normally needed for assignment of spectra, promising spin-trapping results would prompt the synthesis of nitronyl- or β- ¹⁴ C!-DMPO₅, which could provide the EPR parameter needed for diagnostic purposes. The advantages expected from 2-substituted DMPO spin traps is that the spin adducts would be less vulnerable to oxidative degradation or disproportionation.

The spin-trapping chemistry of 2-methyl-, 2-tert-butyl, and 2-phenyl-DMPO with alkoxyl radicals was examined, where M designates methyl and P and O, pyrroline N-oxide (2,5, 5-M₃ PO, and 2-phenyl-5,5-M₃ PO or M₃ PO, BM₃ PO, and PhM₃ PO).

M₃ PO was synthesized by the method published by Haire, et al., J. Org. Chem, 51, 4298 (1986), the teachings of which are incorporated herein. However, a strong EPR signal was found from solutions of this preparation. This EPR-active impurity could not be completely removed by distillation, chromatography, and/or extraction. The synthesis was repeated using Zn/NH₃ CI in H₃ O at 10° C. instead of Zn/acetic acid in 95% ErOH, as described by Bonnett, et al., J. Chem. Soc. 2094 (1959). Although this preparation still contained some adminoxyl impurity, the material could be used for spin-trapping experiments in cases where the spin adduct signal is very strong.

BM₂ PO, was synthesized as published by Haire, et al., Can. J. Chem. 66, 7395 (1988), the teachings of which are incorporated herein. tert-Butyl magnesium chloride (Aldrich) was added to DMPO and the addition product was air oxidized with cupric acetate in methanol-containing ammonium hydroxide. "EPR-grade" material could be obtained from large crystals which did not give an EPR signal from 0.02M benzene solutions investigated at 10E6 on a Bruker 300 E spectrometer.

PhM₃ PO was synthesized by the method of Black and Boscacci, Aust. J. Chem. 29, 3511 (1976), the teachings of which are incorporated herein. Phenyl magnesium bromide was added to DMPO followed by oxidation of the adduct. Again, when large crystals could be obtained from recrystallization, EPR-grade spin trap could be obtained.

DMPO was synthesized from 2-nitropropane and acrolein by well-known procedures.

It should be noted that synthetic chemists publishing preparation of nitrones are normally not faced with the problem of making EPR-grade pure compounds. More effort is needed to purify nitrones for analytical spin-trapping purposes than to synthesize the compounds from starting materials.

A Bruker 300E EPR spectrometer was used for this study. Photolysis was provided by a 75 W high-pressure lamp placed in front of an EPR photolysis cavity. Benzene was spectro-scopic grade. Alkyl nitrites, di-tert-butyl peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and starting materials for synthesis were obtained from Aldrich Chemical Co.

Alkoxyl radicals were produced by photolysis of alkyl nitrites.

In all cases triplet patterns were observed with occasions small doublet splitting. The spectra were assigned to the alkoxyl adducts of the spin traps on the basis of the relatively small magnitude of the nitrogen hyperfine splitting constant (n-hfsc). In the case of the tert-butoxyl radical, the assignment could be checked by photolysis of di-tert-butyl peroxide. Only in the case of M₃ PO was an additional proton hfs detected in every example of alkoxyl adduct examined. The magnitude of this splitting increases in the order of increasing bulk of the alkyl group. The single doublet hfs is assumed to come from hyperfine splitting of one y-hydrogen in the 3 position, as for DMPO.

The half-lifetime of the tert-butoxyl adduct is over 5 hours for all three spin traps (only at 0.0001M for M₃ PO,) when the adduct is made by photolysis of di-tert-butyl peroxide. However, the stability of the butoxyl adduct of M₃ PO, is dependent on the concentration of M₃ PO, the lifetime decreasing by a factor of over 5 when the concentration is increased from 0.0001 to 0.01M. This observation suggests that the spin adduct may react with unchanged spin trap to kill the EPR signal of the nitroxyl function of hydrogen atom abstraction:

EXAMPLE 2 Assessment of the Inhibitory Effect of New Spin Traps on in vivo Carbon Tetrachloride Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats Using ¹ H Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Electron Microscopy

Acute CCl₄ hepatotoxicity is thought to occur as a result of free radicals generated from the metabolism of CCl₄ in the liver. With the use of MRI it is possible to detect in vivo a CCl₄ -induced localized edematous region surrounding the hepatic portal vein. Inhibition of the CCl₄ -induced response has been obtained by pretreatment with the spin trap, C-phenyl-tert-butyl nitrone (PBN), 30 min prior to CCl₄ exposure. The inhibitory effect of two new spin traps, 2,5,5-trimethylpyrroline-N-oxide (M₃ PO or methyl-DMPO) and 2-phenyl-5,5-dimethylpyrroline-N-oxide (PhM₂ PO or phenyl-DMPO), on in vivo CCl₄ -induced acute hepatotoxicity was investigated. Both PhM₂ PO and M₃ PO were found to inhibit the CCl₄ -induced response at lower concentrations (0.35 M/kg body weight) than PBN (0.70 M/kg body weight). However, both M₃ PO and PhM₂ PO were also found to induce an edematous response at the same concentrations used for the PBN studies (0.70 M/kg body weight). PhM₂ PO, at a concentration of 0.35 M/kg body weight, was 93% as efficient as PBN, at a concentration of 0.70 M/kg body weight; whereas M₃ PO, at a concentration of 0.35 M/kg, was 89% as efficient as PBN at 0.70 M/kg body weight. Electron micrographs were obtained from small liver sections taken in proximity to the hepatic portal veins of all treatment groups. The electron microscopy investigations support the MRI findings.

The following abbreviations were used: Carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), spintraps, 2,5,5-trimethylpyrroline-N-oxide (M₃ PO),2-phenyl-5,5-dimethylpyrroline-N-oxide (PhM₂ PO), and electron microscopy (EM).

The proposed mechanism of hepatotoxicity of many halocarbons, such as carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) or halothane (CF₃ CHClBr), involves free radical mediated processes leading to the peroxidative decomposition of intracellular membrane structures and eventual hepatocellular necrosis. From previous EPR (electron paramagnetic resonance, or ESR) spin trapping studies, four radical species from the metabolism of CCl₄ in rat liver in vitro; the trichloromethyl radical (CCl₃), the carbon dioxide radical anion (CO₂), a carbon-centered lipid derived radical with methylene group (CH₂ R), and an oxygen-centered lipid derived radical (OR), have been detected.

With the use of MRI it is possible to study the hepatotoxic effects of CCl₄ and halothane in vivo. Previous studies have demonstrated that proton MRI can be used to detect acute localized CCl₄ -induced edema in the region surrounding the hepatic portal vein within a period of 1-2 hours. With the use of the free radical spin trap, C-phenyl N-tert-butyl nitrone (PBN), it has been possible to inhibit the CCl₄ -induced edematous response In this study, the inhibitory effect of two other spin traps, 2,5,5-trimethylpyrroline-N-oxide (M₃ PO or methyl-DMPO) and 2-phenyl-5,5-dimethylpyrroline-N-oxide (Pb-M₂ PO or phenyl-DMPO), were compared against an MRI observable CCl₄ -induced hepatotoxic response. To confirm the MRI results, an electron microscopic examination of liver samples from the treated rats was also performed.

EXPERIMENTAL

Fasted (24 h) male Wistar rats (Charles River, Canada) weighing 180-200 g (n=6) were given CCl₄ i.p. (160 1/200 g rat in 0.5 ml saline with 5% Emulphor) and anesthetized with sodium pentobarbital for approx. 3-4 hours. Control rats (n=4) received an equivalent volume of saline. The spin trap PBN was administered j.p. 30 min prior to CCl₄ at a concentration of 125 mg/kg or 0.7 M/kg body weight. The spin traps PhM₂ PO and M₃ PO were administered j.p. 30 min prior to CCl₄ at concentrations of 65 and 45 mg/kg, respectively (or 0.35 M/kg) or 130 and 90 mg/kg, respectively (or 0.70 M/kg).

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements were made with a Spectroscopy Imaging Systems (SIS) 2.0 Testa/31 cm bore imaging spectrometer. Respiratory gating was used to trigger acquisition of phase-encoding steps in the imaging sequence. Multiple ¹ H-NMR image slices were taken in the transverse plane (TE 25 ms; Tr 1 s). Image slices were 3 mm thick, field of view was 8×8 cm1² with 256 phase-encoding steps, 2 acquisitions per step, and 512 frequency encoding points. An in-house computer program was used to measure localized (6 mm dia. areas in the vicinity of the hepatic portal vein) proton NMR signal intensities (measured in arbitrary units) from the `damaged` or corresponding normal regions of the livers in the images.

Rats were killed with an overdose of sodium pentobartibal (i.p.) after the imaging experiments. The livers were perfused via the hepatic portal vein with a universal electron microscopy fixative solution consisting of 2.5% glutaraldehyde and 2.5% paraformaldehyde in phosphate buffer. Appropriate small sections were removed in proximity to the hepatic portal vein from all treatment groups and immersed in the above fixative agent. The tissue fragments were subsequently post-fixed with 2.0% OsO₄ in phosphate buffer and embedded in Epon. Sections (1 m thick) were cut with a Reichert ultramicrotome OMU3 followed by staining with Toluidine blue. Ultrathin sections were cut from the areas selected by light microscopic examination and mounted on copper grids. These sections were stained with alcoholic uranyl acetate and lead citrate and subsequently examined on JEOL 100-S transmission electron microscope.

RESULTS

One to two hours following CCl₄ exposure (i.p.) a localized edematous region is readily observed, as shown in the in vivo transverse (or axial) proton MR image. Comparatively, no edema is present in the liver image of a saline-treated rat. This result has been observed previously on numerous occasions. The CCl₄ -induced `damage` observed by proton MRI is localized in a region surrounding the hepatic portal vein in the central portion of the liver. Confirmation of the localized CCl₄ -induced `tissue damage` was obtained previously from EM analysis of liver sections taken from the excised livers following MRI. The high intensity proton region observed was also previously characterized by using a volume selective spectroscopy (VOSY) technique. An increase in H₂ O!, in the high intensity proton signal region (4×4×4 mm³ voxel) of CCl₄ -treated rat livers was measured by the VOSY technique, in comparison to saline-treated livers.

The results using PBN, a free radical spin trap, administered 30 min prior to CCl₄ administration, indicated that there was a reduction in the localized CCl₄ -induced `tissue damage` observed by ¹ H-MRI. In this study, there was also a substantial decrease in the high intensity ¹ H-MRI signal from the CCl₄ -induced edema observed with PhM₂ PO or MBPO pretreatment 30 min prior to CCl₄. Proton NMR signal intensities from CCl₄ -induced edematous regions and similar regions in control and spin trap+CCl₄ treated rat liver images (4×4 mm² area surrounding the postal vein) were measured using an in-house computer program. Localized proton NMR signal intensities were found to be 64.0±3.8 (n=4) 2 h after CCl₄ administration, i.e. similar to saline controls. Localized proton NMR signal intensities measured from PbM₂ PO+CCl₄ treated rat liver images, 2 h after CCl₄ administration, were found to be 68.9±0.7 (n=4) at 0.35 M/kg and 85.±0.2 (n=2) at 0.7 M/kg. Localized proton NMR signal intensities measured from M₃ PO+CCl₄ treated rat liver images, 2 h after CCl₄ administration, were found to be 72.1±2.8 (n=4) at 0.35 M/kg and 85.4±4.2 (n=3) at 0.7 M/kg. Localized proton NMR signal intensities measured from either control PbM₂ PO or M₃ PO treated rat liver images at low concentrations (0.35 M/kg) were found to be 69.2±4.9 and 70.9±2.1, respectively. In contrast, those obtained from control PhM₂ PO and M₃ PO treated livers at a high concentration (0.70 M/kg) were found to be 80.4±0.3 and 84.2±0.2, respectively. The high proton NMR signal intensities observed for PhM₂ PO and M₃ PO at high concentrations (0.70 M/kg) are similar to that observed for high concentration (1.4 M/kg) PBN treated rat livers in a previous study. Localized proton NMR signal intensities were obtained for each treatment group over a period of 3 hours. The results of representative saline, CCl₄, PBN+CCl₄, PhM₂ PO+CCl₄, and M₃ PO treated rat livers show that PhM₂ PO is a more effective spin trap than M₃ PO at a concentration of 0.35 M/kg in inhibiting CCl₄ -induced responses. However, PBN at a concentration of 0.70 M/Kg was found to inhibit CCl₄ -induced `tissue damage` better than either PhM₂ PO or M₃ PO (at concentrations of 0.35 M/kg) over the 3 hour period.

Light and electron microscopic examination of the liver sections taken in proximity to the hepatic portal vein revealed findings that correlated well with the results. CCl₄ treatment alone indicated extensive vacuolation under light microscopy and substantial ultrastructural changes observed by electron microscopy, such as the formation of large vacuoles and lipid droplets in the cisternae, fragmentation of the granular ER and extensive swelling and disruption of the cristae in the mitochondria. Hepatocytes from liver sections taken from PBN+CCl₄ (0.70 M/kg PBN), PhM₂ PO+CCl₄ (0.35 M/kg PhM2PO), M₃ PO+CCl₄ (0.35 M/kg M₃ PO), PhM₂ PO (0.35 M/kg) and M₃ PO (0.35 M/kg) treated rats appeared similar to saline-treated controls under light and electron microscopy. High doses of PhM₂ PO and M₃ PO (0.70 M/kg) in combination with CCl₄ resulted in the appearance of a few vacuolated hepatocytes in zone 3 and dark granules in the hepatocytes in zone 2 under microscopy. EM examination of the PhM₂ PO+CCl₄ (0.70 M/kg PhM₂ PO) and M₃ PO+CCl₄ (0.70 M/kg M₃ PO) liver sections revealed mild accumulation of lipid and a mildly rarefied cytoplasmic matrix of the hepatocytes. These results demonstrate the effectiveness in vivo of the DMPO and DMPO derivatives in inhibiting damage arising from free radical production.

Modifications and variations of the spin trapping compositions for the treatment of a variety of disorders associated with oxidation of proteins and/or lipids will be obvious to those skilled in the art from the foregoing detailed description. Such modifications and variations are intended to come within the scope of the appended claims. 

We claim:
 1. A composition comprising a spin trapping compound in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for administration to a patient, the compound having the general formula: ##STR8## wherein R¹ is arylalkyl, alkylaryl, phenyl, or ##STR9## wherein n=1-5; R² =independently halogen, alkyl, oxyalkyl, alkenyl, oxyalkenyl, OH, ##STR10## --SO₃ H, --OSO₃ H, SH, --S(alkyl), --S(alkenyl), or haloallcyl; A=O or S;Z is a C₁ to C₆ straight, branched, alkyl or cyclic group; and Y is a tert-butyl group that can be hydroxylated or acetylated at one or more positions, phenyl, aralkyl or alkylaryl; and.wherein R³, R⁴, R⁷ and R⁸ each are methyl, and R⁵ and R⁶ each are hydrogen.
 2. The composition of claim 1 wherein multiple units of the spin trapping compound are formed into one molecule for administration to a patient.
 3. The composition of claim 1 wherein the pharmaceutical carrier is selected from the group consisting of carriers for intravenous administration, oral administration, administration via the respiratory tract, subcutaneous administration, intramuscular administration, rectal administration, and topical administration.
 4. A composition comprising the spin trapping compound, 2-phenyl-3,3,5,5-tetramethylpyrroline-N-oxide.
 5. A method for detecting or trapping free radicals comprising administering to a patient a composition comprising a spin trapping compound in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, the compound having the formula: ##STR11## wherein R¹ is alkyl, arylalkyl, alkylaryl, phenyl, or ##STR12## wherein n=1-5; R² =independently halogen, alkyl, oxyalkyl, alkenyl, oxyalkenyl, OH, --NH₂, ##STR13## --SO₃ H, --OSO₃ H, SH, --S(alkyl), --S(alkenyl), or haloalkyl; A=O or S;Z is a C₁ to C₆ straight, branched, alkyl or cyclic group; and Y is a tert-butyl group that can be hydroxylated or acetylated at one or more positions, phenyl, aralkyl or alkylaryl; andwherein R³⁻⁸ are independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkaryl, aralkyl, or phenyl; and wherein when R³⁻⁶ are H and R⁷⁻⁸ are methyl, R¹ is not methyl.
 6. The method of claim 5 wherein R⁷ and R⁸ are each methyl, and wherein R⁵ and R⁶ each are hydrogen.
 7. The method of claim 6 wherein R³ and R⁴ are methyl.
 8. The method of claim 6 wherein R³ and R⁴ are methyl.
 9. The method of claim 5 wherein the spin trapping compound is selected from the group consisting of 2-tert-butyl-5,5-dimethylpyrroline-N-oxide, 2-phenyl-5,5-dimethylpyrroline-N-oxide and 2-phenyl-3,3,5,5-tetramethylpyrroline-N-oxide.
 10. The method of claim 5 further comprising permitting the spin trapping compound to bind with a free radical in the patient and then detecting the spin trapping compound by electron spin spectroscopy.
 11. The composition of claim 4 further comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for intravenous administration or for oral administration to a patient. 